Prince Harry’s journey from the British royal family to a new life in California has been anything but ordinary. Since stepping back from royal duties in 2020, his immigration status in the United States has been a topic of intrigue and speculation. The latest developments have added layers to this complex narrative, raising questions about transparency, privilege, and the intersection of celebrity and law.
The Beginning of the Scrutiny
The controversy ignited in early 2023 when Prince Harry’s memoir, Spare, candidly detailed his past drug use, including cocaine and psychedelic mushrooms. Such admissions are typically red flags in U.S. immigration law, where applicants are asked about past drug use—a factor that can lead to visa denials. This revelation prompted the conservative think tank, the Heritage Foundation, to file a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS), seeking access to Harry’s immigration records.
The foundation’s concern was clear: Did Prince Harry disclose his drug use on his visa application? And if so, did he receive special treatment? When the DHS denied the request, the Heritage Foundation took legal action, leading to a court battle that would unfold over the next two years.
The Redacted Documents
In March 2025, after prolonged legal proceedings, a federal judge ordered the release of certain documents related to Prince Harry’s visa application. However, the public’s anticipation was met with disappointment as the released files were heavily redacted. While some court filings and transcripts were made available, they offered little concrete information about the Duke’s immigration status. The DHS maintained that there was no evidence of misconduct, and the judge ruled that the public interest did not outweigh Harry’s right to privacy.
Despite the limited information, the release of these documents fueled further speculation. The absence of clear details about Harry’s visa status only deepened the mystery.
A New Twist: The A-1 Visa Theory
Just when it seemed the case had reached an impasse, new developments emerged. In August 2025, it was revealed that the U.S. Department of State, under Secretary Marco Rubio, possessed over 1,000 pages of documents related to Prince Harry’s visa application. These records, which had not been previously disclosed, included communications from various offices within the State Department, such as the Office of the Secretary and the Legal Advisor’s Office.
This revelation led immigration experts to speculate that Prince Harry might hold an A-1 “Head of State” visa—a rare and prestigious diplomatic visa typically reserved for foreign royals and heads of state. Unlike standard visas, the A-1 visa allows holders to reside and work in the U.S. without the stringent requirements imposed on other applicants. Notably, it does not mandate detailed background checks, including inquiries into past drug use.
Legal experts suggest that Prince Harry may have held this type of visa throughout his life, renewing it periodically. Such a visa would grant him indefinite “duration of status,” meaning he could remain in the U.S. as long as he is in line to the British throne.
The Political and Public Response
The unfolding saga has not only captivated the public but also drawn political attention. The Heritage Foundation’s continued legal efforts have been met with criticism from some quarters, with detractors accusing the organization of using public records laws to target a high-profile individual for political gain. On the other hand, supporters argue that transparency is essential, especially when it involves figures who occupy a unique position in both British and American societies.
Public opinion remains divided. Some view Prince Harry’s potential A-1 visa as a necessary diplomatic tool, allowing him to engage in his charitable endeavors without the constraints of standard immigration laws. Others perceive it as an example of privilege, questioning why a foreign royal should receive preferential treatment not afforded to ordinary applicants.
The Future of Prince Harry’s U.S. Residency
As of now, Prince Harry continues to reside in California with his wife, Meghan Markle, and their children. He remains active in various charitable initiatives, including the Invictus Games and mental health advocacy. Despite the ongoing legal battles and public scrutiny, there is no indication that his residency is under immediate threat.
The Trump administration has weighed in on the matter, with President Donald Trump stating in February 2025 that he had no plans to deport Prince Harry. “I’ll leave him alone,” Trump remarked, adding that the Duke “has enough problems with his wife.”
The mystery surrounding Prince Harry’s U.S. visa is far from resolved. While new documents have shed light on the possibility of a diplomatic visa, many questions remain unanswered. The case highlights the complex interplay between immigration law, public interest, and the unique status of foreign royals in the United States.
As the legal proceedings continue, the public watches closely, eager for clarity on whether Prince Harry‘s American dream is built on a foundation of privilege or one of transparency and fairness.
